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183

PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALESLEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

1999

FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SECOND PARLIAMENT

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QUESTIONSAND

ANSWERS

No. 14

TUESDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 1999

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[The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, allunanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sittingand any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice isgiven; and, when answered.]

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERSTuesday 7 September 1999

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PUBLICATION OF QUESTION ANSWER TO BE LODGED BY

Q. & A. No. 4 29 June 1999(Including Question Nos 40 to 50)

Q. & A. No. 5 30 June 1999(Including Question Nos 51 to 59)

Q. & A. No. 6 1 July 1999(Including Question Nos 60 to 65)








Q. & A. No. 14 3 August 1999(Including Question Nos 142 to 155)


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Notice of Question given on the date shown

25 MAY 1999

(Paper No. 4)

*40 SCHOOL INVASION PROSECUTIONS—Mr Ashton asked the Minister for Education andTraining—

(1) How many people have been successfully prosecuted for school invasion in NSW Governmentschools since the penalty for this offence was doubled?(2) How many incidents of school invasion (i.e., intruders who cause violent incidents) have beenreferred to the:

(a) Department of Education?(b) NSW Police Service?

Answer—

(1) Prosecution under the Inclosed Lands Act is not a matter for my portfolio. The member shouldaddress his question to the Minister for Police.(2) (a) Since 2 January 1998, 180 incidents have been referred to the Department of Education

and Training concerning persons entering school premises without lawful excuse andcommitting, or threatening to commit, a violent act.

(b) The member should address his question to the Minister for Police.

*41 COUNCIL FIRE SERVICE LEVY—Mr Ashton asked the Minister for Local Government, Ministerfor Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) What is the format or rationale used in setting the Fire Service Levy charged to councils in NewSouth Wales?(2) What role do requests, if any, from the NSW Fire Brigades play in setting the levy for localgovernment authorities in New South Wales?

Answer—

(1) and (2) I am advised that the Fire Service Levy is not collected under any legislation administeredby myself.The Fire Service Levy arises from the Fire Brigades Act 1989 and I suggest that the honourablemember direct his question to the Minister for Emergency Services.

*43 STATE RAIL AUTHORITY—LAND DEVELOPMENT—Ms Moore asked the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is he aware of continuing community concern about the possible development on land owned bythe State Rail Authority on the corner of Edgecliff Road and Ocean Avenue, Edgecliff?(2) What response has the State Rail Authority received to its call for expressions of interest todevelop air space over the existing park and tunnel area?(3) What options are being considered for the future use of the land and air space?(4) Will he confirm his assurance, made during the recent election campaign, that the land willremain as parkland and that the air space will not be developed?(5) What action is he taking to ensure that this commitment is being implemented?


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Answer—

(1) to (5) I have instructed the State Rail Authority (SRA) that the land is to remain parkland andthat there is to be no airspace development. The SRA is currently investigating options to transfer theland to Woollahra Council.

*44 BUS SERVICE 311—RAILWAY SQUARE TO KINGS CROSS—Ms Moore asked the Ministerfor Transport and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is he aware of persistent reports from inner city public transport users that the 311 bus servicefrom Railway Square to Kings Cross is unreliable and inadequate, with scheduled buses regularlyarriving late, early or not at all?(2) What mechanisms are in place to review and correct problems of bus services that do not run toschedule?(3) What causes have been identified for the problems affecting the 311 service?(4) What action will be taken to improve the frequency and reliability of the 311 service?

Answer—

The State Transit Authority advises me of the following:(1) to (4) The services provided on Route 311 are adequate to satisfy customer demands, however,there are problems with the reliability of the services from traffic congestion in the CBD.Problem areas and the possible improvements/corrective initiatives required to improve the reliabilityof these services are being investigated.

*45 WOOLLOOMOOLOO BAY—TRIAL FERRY SERVICES—Ms Moore asked the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

In relation to his commitment during the recent election campaign to a trial of ferry services toWoolloomooloo Bay, could he advise—(1) When will the trial commence and for how long will it continue?(2) What will be the days and times of operation for the service?(3) What route will the ferry service take and how will it link with existing public transportservices?(4) What advertising will be undertaken to promote the service?(5) What progress has been made on arranging a ferry docking site following the failure ofsuccessive governments to retain this as part of the Finger Wharf development?(6) How will the trial be evaluated and what criteria will be used to decide on the ongoing operationand expansion of the service?(7) How will the local community be provided with an opportunity to have input into the operationand evaluation of the trial?

Answer—

The State Transit Authority has advised me of the following:(1) to (7) Evaluation of options to facilitate the trial are currently under consideration.

*46 PYMBLE BRIDGE—REPLACEMENT COST—Mr O’Farrell asked the Minister for Transport andMinister for Roads—

(1) What is the estimated cost of replacing the four-lane Pymble Bridge with a six-lane structure?(2) What priority does the RTA give to removing this bottleneck?Answer—


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(1) and (2) A preliminary estimate for the widening of the Pymble Bridge from 4 to 6 lanes is$10 million to $15 million.Widening of the Pymble Bridge from 4 to 6 lanes would have minimal impact on traffic flowconditions. To obtain any worthwhile improvements, the capacity of traffic signals each side of thebridge at Livingstone Avenue and Telegraph Road would need to be increased. This could only takeplace as part of a total widening and improvement program between Mona Vale Road and BobbinHead Road.

*48 “COUNTRY EMBASSY”—OFFICE HOURS AND STAFF LEVELS—Mr Souris asked theMinister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Will the “Country Embassy” continue to be located in Sydney’s CBD?(2) How many days a week is the “Country Embassy” open and what are the hours in which itoperates?(3) How many people are currently employed at the “Country Embassy”?(4) How many functions have been held at the “Country Embassy” in each of the following years:

(a) 1995?(b) 1996?(c) 1997?(d) 1998?

(5) For which organisations, businesses or individuals were these functions held?

Answer—

(1) The Country Embassy will continue to be located in Sydney CBD. The Country Embassy is thepremier marketing venue for regional organisations wanting to promote their business to clients in, orvisiting, Sydney. The CBD location is of particular importance in the lead-up to the Olympics in2000.(2) The Country Embassy is open 5 days per week, Monday to Friday, from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.The centre caters for events and requests for usage outside of these hours on a regular basis. Theembassy is available for evening functions as required.(3) The Country Embassy employs four staff members who carry out management and operationfunctions for the embassy and the associated Trade and Investment Centre.(4) The Country Embassy does not currently maintain statistics on the number of events held butretains visitor numbers and the names of participating organisations.The figures listed for period 1994/95 and 1995/96 are for the Country Embassy alone. Following theco-location of the Country Embassy with the Trade and Investment centre, the figures reflect businessvisits to both venues.

(a) 1994/95 2,333 Country Embassy only(b) 1995/96 2,541 Country Embassy only(c) 1996/97 15,246 Country Embassy and Trade and Investment(d) 1997/98 23,288 Country Embassy and Trade and Investment

(5) The following companies and organisations have hosted functions in the Country Embassy sinceits inception. These functions include business meetings, networking events and exhibitions.


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COMPANIESAkubra Hats Lithgow Valley Springs - WaterAlbatross Park Homes Markham ManufacturingAllambi Wines Manning Valley Tourist AssociationAshbrook Woods M E SoundAustralia Pyrotechnics Mid Coast Meat CompanyAustralia Rice Growers Association Namoi CottonAustralian Country Styles - Magazine National DairiesBayview Seafood Processors Nestle Australia LtdBeachwood Timbers Northern Co-op Meat CompanyBillabong Jerky Nouvelle KitchensBoral Bricks Old Style Furniture CompanyBounding Away - Toys Olsen ConstructionsBritex Optex EyewearBroken Bago Wines Planet LightingBrylite Soft Edges Poaches PantryCassegrain Wines Polytech Antiwear ProductsCharlie Bros Wines Port Plastics & ToolingClarissa’s Fine Foods Prana SurfboardsContainers Packaging R & B TimberCootamundra Gold - Canola Oil Riverina Olive Oil - BECCranswick Estates Speedlift - TamworthCustomline Stebercraft - Boat ManufactureElla Maiden Sunne PrintersFrancesdale Merino Collection The Berry Best - JamsGoddard Wool Marketing Thermal Electrical ElementsHastings Dairy Co-operative Thompson AluminiumHastings River Winery Thursday PlantationHot Tuna Tilba CheeseHoward Crokers Oars Tobwabba ArtJCG Prunes Watersports AustraliaJLG Industries W.E. Smith EngineeringKarella Wool Wingham Meat ExportsKempsey Timbers Yandilla Mustard Seed OilKing Gee Clothing York AustraliaKoala Gourmet Foods

ASSOCIATIONSAgribusiness Association of Australia Local Shires AssociationCountry Manufacturers Association of NSW MainstreetCountry Mayors Association NSW Coffee Growers AssociationEmu Breeders of NSW NSW Bed & Breakfast CouncilFarm Stays NSW Wine Industry AssociationHunter Valley Research Association Seed Potato Growers of NSW


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COUNCILS AND BOARDSAlbury Development Corporation Lake Macquarie CouncilArmidale Development Corporation Moree Plains Shire CouncilAustralia Holiday Coast Regional Development Murray Shire Council Board Narrabri City CouncilBEC Innovation Centre Newcastle Ports AuthorityCentral Economic Zone New England Regional Development Board

Central West Regional Development Board Oberon City CouncilCowra City Council Parkes Shire CouncilDubbo City Council Queanbeyan Shire CouncilDubbo Development Corporation Tamworth Development CorporationGlen Innes Tamworth City CouncilGoulburn City Council Wagga Wagga BECGrafton City Council Wagga Wagga City CouncilGreater Taree Shire Council Wentworth Shire CouncilInverell Shire Young Shire Council

*49 KOGARAH RTA OFFICE—METHODS OF OPERATION—Mr J.H. Turner asked the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

(1) (a) Does the timer on the ticketing machine in the Kogarah RTA office keep correct time?(b) If not, why not?

(2) How many staff are employed at the Kogarah RTA office:(a) full-time?(b) part-time?(c) casual?

(3) How many customer service booths at the Kogarah RTA office are required to be opened at anyone time for customer service and inquiries?(4) How many staff members at the Kogarah RTA office were available to attend customers on 11May 1999?(5) What were the hours of employment for each staff member on 11 May 1999?(6) What breaks are each staff member entitled to take during those hours of employment?(7) Do any staff fill in for staff who take breaks?(8) If not, why not?(9) What was the waiting time for customers on 11 May 1999:

(a) in the morning?(b) in the afternoon?

(10) Were those waiting times considered reasonable?(11) If not, why not?(12) What provisions are in place at the Kogarah RTA office to assist customers from a non-Englishspeaking background with communication difficulties?(13) How many complaints per month does the Kogarah RTA office receive in relation to poorcustomer service?(14) What mechanisms are in place for the RTA to respond to customer complaints and rectify thesituation?

Answer—

(1) (a) Yes.(b) Not applicable.


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(2) (a) Seven full-time.(b) Ten part-time.(c) Nil casuals.

(3) The number of customer booths opened at any one time is flexible as staffing is based oncustomer demand and can vary from hour to hour, day of the week and the particular time in themonth.(4) In total, thirteen staff were available to attend to customer requirements on 11 May 1999.However, as indicated under (3) above, this figure varies according to demand.(5) Hours of employment were as follows:

8.20 am - 4.35 pm 8.20 am - 5.20 pm 8.20 am - 3.50 pm 8.20 am - 4.10 pm 9.05 am - 5.20 pm 9.20 am - 2.20 pm 9.30 am - 5.00 pm10.20 am - 5.20 pm10.20 am - 5.20 pm10.20 am - 3.20 pm12.00 am - 5.20 pm 1.20 pm - 5.20 pm11.20 am - 4.20 pm

(6) Staff working in excess of 5 hours are entitled to a ½-hour meal break and a 15-minute morningtea break.(7) As staff are rostered to meet customer requirements, meal breaks are brought to account whenrosters are being formulated.(8) Not applicable.(9) (a) Average waiting time for all customers was 5 minutes for the am period.

(b) Average waiting time for all customers was 6 minutes for the pm period.(10) Yes.(11) Not applicable.(12) At Kogarah Motor Registry, there are a number of staff that speak a variety of languages.Telephone assistance can also be provided from other RTA areas as required. The registry provideshandbooks, knowledge tests and brochures to cater for a number of languages and, on demand, canarrange an interpreter service to assist driver licence applicants with knowledge tests.(13) In the last 3 months, there have been no complaints in relation to poor customer service.(14) Any complaints received concerning customer service are investigated and necessary action istaken.

26 MAY 1999

(Paper No. 5)

*51 EASTERN DISTRIBUTOR TOLLWAY—BOURKE STREET—Ms Moore asked the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

In relation to the southbound entry to the Eastern Distributor Tollway at Bourke Street,Woolloomooloo, which is a few metres away from residences—(1) What acoustic modelling and testing has been undertaken to assess the impact on residences ofnoise from the Bourke Street Tollway entry, both during the construction phase and long-term, oncethe entry is open for traffic?


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(2) What measures will be put in place to keep noise impacts, during the construction phase, withinacceptable limits at all times?(3) What permanent measures, such as a noise wall or cover, will be put in place to prevent anylong-term impact from traffic noise?(4) What consultation will be undertaken with local residents to determine the most appropriate andeffective measures to prevent noise pollution?

Answer—

(1) During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement for the project, backgroundnoise levels were measured in order to assess construction and post-construction impacts onresidents. A noise assessment was also carried out to examine potential impacts from constructionactivities. Additionally, traffic noise modelling has been carried out to assess noise impacts from themotorway, including the Bourke Street on-ramp.(2) As required under the Conditions of Approval issued by the Department of Urban Affairs andPlanning for the project, a detailed Noise and Vibration Management Procedure has been prepared aspart of the Environmental Management Plan.All construction activities, including the entry and departure of heavy vehicles, are restricted to thehours of 7.00 am to 6.00 pm (Mondays to Fridays) and 7.00 am to 1.00 pm (Saturdays). Constructionactivities outside of these hours and on Sundays and public holidays may occur from time to time butonly with approval of the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and notification to affectedresidents.All plant and equipment to be used on construction sites are tested to ensure compliance with EPAnoise limits. Additionally, alternative construction methods that reduce noise impacts are consideredand, where practicable, temporary noise attenuation measures are implemented. During theconstruction phase, noise levels are monitored to verify compliance with the requirements specifiedin the Noise and Vibration Management Procedure.(3) A 2-metre high noise barrier will be constructed on the eastern side of the motorway nearCathedral Street. Based on the results of the noise modelling, no barriers are currently proposed nearthe Bourke Street on-ramp. However, post-construction monitoring will be conducted in theimmediate area to check compliance with EPA noise criteria. If it is found that the criteria areexceeded, additional noise mitigation measures will be considered in consultation with the localcommunity; having regard to cost effectiveness and practicability of the measures proposed.(4) Consultation during construction is being carried out through the Community Liaison Groupmeetings and Resident Group meetings.

*52 EASTERN DISTRIBUTOR TOLLWAY—SOUTH DOWLING STREET—Ms Moore asked theMinister for Transport and Minister for Roads—

In relation to the uncovered sections of the Eastern Distributor Tollway along South Dowling Streetat Surry Hills and Redfern—(1) What acoustic modelling or testing has been undertaken to assess the impact of traffic noise onresidents living along this section of the Eastern Distributor who will be faced with both surfacetraffic and tollway traffic outside their homes?(2) What were the findings from this noise testing?(3) What measures are being put in place to ensure that there is no noise impact from the uncoveredsections of the tollway on South Dowling Street residents?


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Answer—

(1) During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the project,background noise levels were measured along South Dowling Street in order to assess post-construction impacts on residents. Additionally, traffic noise modelling has been carried out to assessnoise impacts from the motorway.(2) Based on the detailed design of the motorway and including the mitigating effect of themeasures being put in place, the latest traffic noise modelling indicates that the maximum increase innoise levels in the year 2011 for this section of South Dowling Street is less than the EnvironmentProtection Authority (EPA) criteria of 2 dB(A). The dominant contributor to noise levels is thenorthbound surface traffic. In fact, noise levels at residences along most of the lowered section of theparkway are predicted to be less than the pre-construction levels.It should be noted that a 2 dB(A) increase in noise is barely perceptible to the human ear.(3) Noise attenuation measures being implemented include lowering of the motorway lanes alongthe parkway, the introduction of a parking lane to effectively move northbound traffic on SouthDowling Street further away from residences, a concrete barrier between the motorway lanes and thesurface lanes on the western side of South Dowling Street, absorptive wall linings on parts of theretaining walls of the motorway on the eastern side south of the main tunnel portal and the ClevelandStreet underpass and use of open-graded asphalt on both the motorway and South Dowling Street.Post-construction noise monitoring will be conducted to verify compliance with EPA noise criteria.Additional mitigation measures will be considered if the monitoring indicates an increase of morethan 2 dB(A).

*53 FISHING CLOSURES—REGULATION F93/186B—Mr Oakeshott asked the Minister for LocalGovernment, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing theMinister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) Do any estuaries still have fishing closures in place from regulation F93/186B?(2) If so, which estuaries?

Answer—

I am advised that the answer to the question is:(1) Yes.(2) Forty-one estuaries have section 8 fishing closures in place relating to the NSW Fisheriesdepartmental file reference F93/186B.Specifically, these are the Tweed River, Rous River, Cobaki Broadwater, Terranora Broadwater,Richmond River, Bungawalbyn Creek, Clarence River, Sportsmans Creek, Shark Creek, Esk River,Coldstream, Deep Creek, Nambucca River, Nambucca Arm, Taylors Arm, Kalang River, BellingerRiver, Macleay River, Manning River, Maria River, Camden Haven River, Myall River, KaruahRiver, Ourimbah River, Wyong Creek, Hawkesbury River, Mangrove Creek, Mooney MooneyCreek, Berowra Waters, Georges River, Shoalhaven River, Broughton Creek, Wandandian Creek,Clyde River, Moruya River, Tuross River, Wallaga Lake, Dignams Creek, Meads Creek, Bega Riverand Mullica River.

*54 AGENDA 21 COMMITTEES—Ms Seaton asked the Minister for Local Government, Minister forRegional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) How many New South Wales local government areas have set up Agenda 21 committees?(2) Which councils have done so?

Answer—


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(1) The Department of Local Government does not keep a record of which councils have localAgenda 21 committees. However, it has been advised by Environs Australia that in a survey it madeof New South Wales councils, which elicited 94 responses, 23 councils indicated that they havedeveloped or are developing a local Agenda 21.(2) The councils which have developed or are developing Agenda 21s are: Armidale City,Baulkham Hills Shire, Blue Mountains City, Byron Shire, Camden, Canterbury City, Cessnock City,Eurobodalla Shire, Gosford City, Hornsby Shire, Kiama Municipal, Ku-ring-gai Municipal, LakeMacquarie City, Lane Cove, Maitland City, Marrickville, Newcastle City, Parramatta City,Sutherland Shire, Tumut Shire, Tweed Shire, Willoughby City, Wingecarribee Shire.While the Department supports the adoption of Agenda 21s by councils, there is no legislativerequirement for a council to adopt an Agenda 21 or to advise the Department that it has adopted anAgenda 21. The decision as to whether a council will adopt an Agenda 21 is one for each council todetermine at its own discretion.The Agenda 21 is compatible with and complements the State of the Environment reporting, theapplication of the principles of ecologically sustainable development and social planningrequirements of the Local Government Act 1993.

*55 LICENSED PEAT MINES—Ms Seaton asked the Minister for Local Government, Minister forRegional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for MineralResources and Minister for Fisheries—

(1) How many peat mines are currently licensed in New South Wales, and where are they?(2) Are any peat mining proposals currently being considered by the Department?(3) If so, where are they?

Answer—

I am advised that the answer to the question is:(1) Two. A mining lease to mine for peat is located approximately 14 kilometres southeast ofBombala and a mineral claim to mine for peat is located about 20 kilometres northeast of Kandos.(2) There are two current mining lease applications to mine for peat. These affect areas immediatelyadjacent to the above-mentioned mining lease near Bombala, they have been applied for by the sameinterests, and have been held in abeyance for some time.(3) See (2) above.

*56 MID NORTH COAST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr Stoner asked the Minister for Health—

As at 26 May 1999—(1) How many staff, both full and part-time, were employed by the Mid North Coast Area HealthService on non-medical functions?(2) How many vehicles were held by the Mid North Coast Area Health Service?

Answer—

(1) Mid North Coast Area Health Service has advised that 568 staff are employed on non-medicalfunctions.(2) 277 vehicles.


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*57 HUNTER AREA ASSISTANCE SCHEME—Mr J.H. Turner asked the Deputy Premier, Ministerfor Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

(1) Has the Hunter Area Assistance Scheme (HAAS) funding round for 1999/2000 been postponedindefinitely?(2) If so, why?(3) If so, what arrangements will be made to fund a new program for 1999/2000 if the fundinground has been postponed indefinitely?(4) If so, what arrangements will be made to fund ongoing HAAS programs that might bedependant on funding in the 1999/2000 funding round?(5) If the funding programs have not been postponed, has Treasury made any funding decisions forthe HAAS program?(6) If so, what are those arrangements?(7) What is the future of the HAAS for 1999/2000 and beyond?(8) If the scheme is to be replaced or changed, what will it be replaced with or changed to?(9) If so, why is it believed the HAAS should be replaced or changed?(10) What was the funding under the HAAS program for 1998/1999?(11) What was the proposed funding under the 1999/2000 program?(12) If the 1999/2000 program has not been postponed, will any new recurrent funding be madeavailable under the scheme?(13) If the program is to continue, will the program stay under the auspice of the Department ofUrban Affairs and Planning?(14) If not, why not?(15) If not, what department will administer any continuing program?(16) If so, how will such department administer such program?(17) If the program is to stay under the auspice of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning,how will it be administered?(18) If the 1999/2000 HAAS program is to be postponed, replaced or changed, what communityinput has there been to such proposals?

Answer—

(1) No.(2) to (9) See answer to (1) above.(10) The total allocation to the HAAS for 1998/99 was $1.7 million. Of this amount, $1.4 millionwas for grants, $145,000 was provided to councils for Community Project Officer subsidies and$133,000 was the direct cost of administering the HAAS.(11) Not yet determined.(12) Yes.(13) Yes.(14) to (16) See answer to (13).(17) As in previous years.(18) See answer to (1).

*58 NORTHPOWER—SECURITY DEPOSITS—Mr J.H. Turner asked the Minister for InformationTechnology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) What is the total amount of security deposits collected by NorthPower for the financial years:(a) 1995/96?(b) 1996/97?(c) 1997/98?(d) 1998 to 30 April 1999?


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(2) How are such security deposits kept?(3) If they are invested, how are they invested?(4) If they are invested, what is the income of such investment?(5) What occurs to any income from any such investment?(6) Do suppliers who pay security deposits receive any of the return on any such investment?(7) If so, what is the return to the customer?(8) If not, why not?(9) What percentage of security deposits were not claimed by customers when they closed theirelectricity account for the years mentioned in question (1)?(10) What is the value of such security deposits that are not claimed in each of those years mentionedin question (1)?(11) What was the total number of bad debts for unpaid electricity accounts for which securitydeposits were held in the years mentioned in question (1)?(12) What was the total amount of security deposits held against such bad debts?(13) If there was a surplus, what occurred to such surplus?

Answer—

(1) (a) $100,000 (estimated figure).(b) $115,000.(c) $195,000.(d) $494,000 (for the 10 months ended 30 April 1999).

(2) Security deposits lodged in cash are held in cash (at bank) and in investments. Security depositsare also in the form of bank guarantees and in fixed term deposits with banks and building societies injoint names between the customer and NorthPower.(3) NorthPower investments are normally invested with the State-owned Treasury Corporation.(4) Income from investments are:

1995/96 $188,0001996/97 $436,0001997/98 $445,0001998/99 (6/6/99) $464,000

(5) Investment income is included in operational income for NorthPower.(6) Where security deposits are in the form of interest bearing deposits in joint names, all interest isreturned to the customer. For other security deposits, any interest income is offset against bad debts.(7) Actual bank rate of return to the customer.(8) Not applicable, based on answers to questions (6) and (7).(9) Nil.(10) All security deposits are paid to customers at termination of their account.(11) Number of bad debts:

1995/96 541996/97 1821997/98 4541998/99 (30/4/99) 82

(12) Amount of security deposits:1995/96 $5,4001996/97 $23,2691997/98 $57,5351998/99 (30/4/99) $16,175

(13) All security deposits are returned to the customer at termination of the account. Any surplus iseither deposited in the customer’s nominated account, posted by cheque to their nominated address ortransferred to any new account with NorthPower.


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*59 MYALL LAKES NATIONAL PARK—ROADS PROGRAM—Mr J.H. Turner asked the Ministerfor the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and MinisterAssisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What is the amount of unsealed road in the Myall Lakes National Park?(2) What is the volume of traffic entering the Myall Lakes National Park from the south of the park?(3) What is the traffic volume entering the Myall Lakes National Park from the north-west of thepark (on the road from Bulahdelah)?(4) What program exists, if any exists, to complete the sealing of all roads in the Myall LakesNational Park?(5) What monies have been set aside for any such program?(6) When is it expected that all roads in the Myall Lakes National Park will be fully sealed?(7) What maintenance programs are in place pending the sealing or resealing of any unsealed roadin the park?(8) What amount of money has been appropriated for any maintenance programs for any unsealedroads for the years:

(a) 1995/96?(b) 1996/97?(c) 1997/98?(d) 1998/99?

Answer—

(1) Myall Lakes National Park contains approximately 17.8 kilometres of unsealed general publicaccess road.(2) The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) does not have a permanent traffic counterinstalled on the roadways within the park. However, a detailed visitor survey conducted over theEaster 1997 period (a peak vehicle use period) indicated that an average of 528 cars entered the parkdaily from the southern access road (Mungo Brush Road).(3) The Easter 1997 survey found that an average of 132 cars entered the park daily from thenorthwest (from Bulahdelah).(4) to (6) The NPWS is currently completing the sealing of Mungo Brush Road. Funding for thisproject consisted of $366,000 in 1997/98 and $338,000 in 1998/99.Given the proportionally low use of the other unsealed roads within the park and the high capitalcosts involved in sealing roads, there are no current plans to seal any other roads in the park.(7) The NPWS has an annual program for the maintenance of unsealed roads within the park.Maintenance of each road is prioritised on the need to maintain safe two-wheel drive access.(8) Expenditure on the maintenance of unsealed roads in Myall Lakes National Park is listed below:

1995/96 $28,0001996/97 $63,9001997/98 $56,9001998/99 $27,974


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27 MAY 1999

(Paper No. 6)

*60 ELECTION PROMISE—POLICE SERVICE—Mr George asked the Minister for Police—

(1) When will he give effect to his written commitment in March this year to the Casino Councilthat the Police Service would introduce 24-hour policing in the peak policing times of Thursday,Friday and Saturday nights as soon as possible?(2) When will this election promise be honoured?

Answer—

(1) and (2) I am advised by the Northern Region Commander, Peter Walsh, that the provision of 24-hour policing in Casino on three nights a week remains a matter of the highest priority for hiscommand.Commander Walsh has given an unequivocal undertaking that when local police are, and I quote,“completely, or substantially, relieved of prisoner custody and transportation duties, twenty-four hourpolicing in Casino on three nights per week will be introduced”.I am pleased to be able to advise the Member for Lismore that the Government recognises theimportance of transferring prisoner escort and court security duties from the Richmond Local AreaCommand (LAC) to Corrective Services personnel. The transfer of the Richmond LAC’s prisonerescort functions has been included in the next phase of the transfer process and is provided for in the1999/2000 Budget.

*61 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING ASSETS—Mr Hazzard asked the Deputy Premier, Minister forUrban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

(1) What is the number of houses and units owned and controlled by the Department of Housing inNew South Wales (specify New South Wales total and in each electorate)?(2) What is the number and type of houses and units owned by the Department of Housing andcontrolled by other non-government organisations (specify New South Wales total and in eachelectorate)?(3) What is the total value of houses, units and total unimproved land (specific for each category)?(4) What is the breakdown (by electorate) of accommodation (e.g., houses, town houses,2-bedroom units, 1-bedroom units, bedsitters, etc.) referred to in (1) above?(5) What is the number of families:

(a) housed at this date?(b) awaiting housing at this date?(c) waiting for accommodation for:

(i) 1 year?(ii) 2 years?

(iii) 3 years?(iv) 4 years?(v) 5 years?

(vi) 6 years?(vii) greater than 6 years?


198

Answer—

(1) to (5) The substantive items are provided in the answers to Questions 886 and 954 of 1998. Inregard to questions (1) to (5), the breakdown per electorate is not available.Subsequent to those responses, it is important to note that housing assistance will be provided to anestimated 190,000 individuals and families during 1999/2000. This is an increase of some 4,500from 1998/99. Some 138,793 households will be accommodated in long-term subsidised housingmanaged by public, community and Aboriginal housing providers. The Government’s priority in1999/2000 is to diversify the range of housing solutions to ensure the speed of assistance to those ingreatest need, to improve the co-ordination of housing and support, to utilise public, community,Aboriginal, and private housing solutions and to promote innovation in customer service.Approximately 12,091 families and individuals will be newly accommodated in 1999/2000 and over2,900 places will be available in crisis accommodation.In addition, almost 48,000 private renters and home owners will receive financial assistance to obtainprivate rental housing.The public housing supply program will receive $102 million, with the public housing capital worksprogram beginning 597 new dwellings and a further 600 dwellings being leased from the privatemarket to public housing for low income households.There will be further expansion of the community housing sector, with $103 million going to generalcommunity housing supply programs. In addition, $5 million will go to the State Boarding HouseProgram. In total, 600 new dwellings will be commenced, including 16 State Boarding HouseProgram dwellings and an additional 386 dwellings will be leased while maintaining existing leases.Strengthening of the Aboriginal housing sector will occur with $37.8 million to Aboriginal housingsupply programs, providing 170 new dwelling commencements managed mostly by Aboriginalcommunity organisations.An estimated 80 per cent of dwelling commencements for both public housing and communitysectors will be achieved through redevelopment to promote urban consolidation objectives and createnew housing close to employment, transport and community services.A strong focus on assisting special needs groups through housing projects that link housing andsupport services, and other special initiatives for homeless people, those with disabilities and peoplewith HIV/AIDS. A total of 77 new dwellings will be provided for people in crises while 20 new unitsof supported accommodation will be provided for people living with HIV/AIDS. In addition, 165families and individuals with disabilities or living with HIV/AIDS will be provided with assistance toenable renting in the private market. A new Homelessness Action Team will pilot a range ofstrategies to assist homeless people and those at risk.In 1999/2000, $162.5 million will go to capital improvement of public housing; includingrejuvenating public housing estates to improve their amenity and ensure that all public housing assetsare in appropriate condition. Community and Aboriginal housing will receive $8.4 million and $15.8million respectively for capital improvement. The Aboriginal housing capital improvementexpenditure will be the second year of a 4-year program to significantly upgrade the condition ofAboriginal housing. It will include special projects to improve health outcomes through betterhousing.

*62 SYD EINFELD DRIVE—NOISE BARRIERS—Ms Moore asked the Minister for Transport andMinister for Roads—

(1) Are there plans to install noise attenuation measures, such as noise walls, along the southernside of Syd Einfeld Drive in the electorate of Coogee?(2) If so, what technical or other reasons exist for not implementing, at the same time, equivalentnoise mitigation measures on the northern side of Syd Einfeld Drive in the electorate of Bligh?

Answer—


199

(1) Noise barriers are currently being erected along the southern side of Syd Einfeld Drive, BondiJunction, in accordance with the Roads and Traffic Authority’s Noise Abatement Program.(2) Noise tests have been undertaken on the northern side of Syd Einfeld Drive in the vicinity ofFern Place, Woollahra, and the noise levels were found to be lower than those on the southern side.Brick walls exist at a number of locations along the northern side of Syd Einfeld Drive and theaddition of noise walls would not provide any extra benefit.However, further noise monitoring in the area is planned for later in the year. The position will bereassessed at that time.

*63 PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS—OXFORD STREET—Ms Moore asked the Minister for Transportand Minister for Roads—

(1) How many accidents involving pedestrians were reported during the 1997/98 financial year forthe section of Oxford Street between Greens Road, Paddington, and Victoria Street, Darlinghurst?(2) How many accidents involving pedestrians have been reported to date during the 1998/99financial year on the same section of Oxford Street?(3) When will action be taken to improve pedestrian safety in this area by installing an additionalsignalised pedestrian crossing on this section of road?

Answer—

(1) Seven.(2) Four.(3) The project is being considered for inclusion in the Roads and Traffic Authority’s forwardworks program.

*64 WITNESS PROTECTION PROGRAM—Mr Tink asked the Minister for Police—

In relation to the State’s witness protection program—(1) How many people were on the witness protection program as at 26 May 1999?(2) What was the cost of the program per witness per day?

Answer—

(1) and (2) I am advised that it would be inappropriate to comment on the operation of the WitnessProtection Program in this forum, given the non-disclosure provisions contained in Part 3 of theWitness Protection Act 1995.

*65 ENFIELD POLICE STATION—STAFFING—Mr Tink asked the Minister for Police—

In relation to the Enfield Police Station, how many police were rostered on duty there at midday on:(a) 30 June 1998?(b) 15 February 1999?(c) 23 March 1999?(d) 26 May 1999?


200

Answer—

The rostering arrangements of individual stations at any particular time are a matter for the relevantLocal Area Commander and are determined according to need.I am pleased to be able to advise the Member for Epping that the Flemington Local Area Command,which includes Enfield Police Station, had an actual strength of 208 police officers in January 1999.I’m sure the Member for Epping will agree this compares favourably with the 166 officers providedby the now Opposition in November 1994.

1 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 7)

66 TAFE STAFF—Mr Barr to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

*67 CORRECTIVE SERVICES—INMATES—Mr Hazzard asked the Minister for the Environment,Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting thePremier on the Arts—

Regarding male inmates—(1) As at 1 January for each of the years 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999, what number ofinmates were:

(a) on periodic detention?(b) on community service?(c) in a correctional facility (other than periodic detention)?

(2) In relation to correctional facilities, what number of inmates were classified in eachclassification category?(3) What were the above details for female inmates?

Answer—

(1) Male offenders as at 1 January in years specified:(a) Periodic detainees:

1995 1,2791996 1,3751997 1,4931998 1,4141999 1,330

(b) With community service orders:1995 3,9721996 4,0921997 4,0181998 3,9181999 4,218

(c) In a correctional facility (other than periodic detention):1995 5,8501996 5,8561997 5,9341998 5,9541999 6,391

(2) Data on the classification of inmates in full-time correctional centres is not collated for thesedates.


201

(3) Female offenders as at 1 January in years specified:(a) Periodic detainees:

1995 1001996 1061997 1261998 1311999 132

(b) With community service orders:1995 6081996 6741997 6841998 6841999 782

(c) In a correctional facility (other than periodic detention):1995 2881996 3131997 3461998 3201999 417

68 POLICE SERVICE—STAFF LEVELS—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Police—

69 AREA HEALTH SERVICES—DEBT LEVEL—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Health—

70 TRAIN SERVICES—OLYMPIC PERIOD—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport andMinister for Roads—

71 TAXIS AND HIRE CAR INDUSTRY REVIEW—Ms Moore to ask the Premier, Minister for theArts and Minister for Citizenship—

72 DUTTON TROUT HATCHERY—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government,Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister forMineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

73 CARP BOUNTY LICENCES—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government, Ministerfor Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for MineralResources and Minister for Fisheries—

74 MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL—Mr Souris to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

75 PROPOSED GAOL—MID-NORTH COAST—Mr Stoner to ask the Minister for the Environment,Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister Assisting thePremier on the Arts—

76 TRAFFIC LIGHTS CO-ORDINATION—PENNANT HILLS ROAD—Mr Tink to ask the Ministerfor Transport and Minister for Roads—

77 MOTOR CYCLE ACCIDENTS—POLICE REPORTS—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister forPolice—

78 KARUAH POLICE STATION—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Police—


202

79 COUNTY COUNCILS—CAPITAL CONTRIBUTION CHARGES—Mr J.H. Turner to ask theMinister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

2 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 8)

80 VACANT HOUSES/UNITS—DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING—Mr Hazzard to ask the DeputyPremier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister forHousing—

81 STAFF LEVELS—DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING—Mr Hazzard to ask the Deputy Premier,Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

82 NORTHERN BEACHES LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Hazzard to ask the Minister forPolice—

83 RECREATIONAL ANGLERS TRUST FUND—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for LocalGovernment, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing theMinister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

84 PROGRAM TRANSFERRING PEOPLE FROM INSTITUTIONALISED CARE—Mr Rozzoli toask the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services andMinister for Women—

85 RESPITE CARE FUNDING—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister for Community Services, Minister forAgeing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—

86 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—GOVERNMENT EXPENDITURE—Mr Rozzoli to ask theMinister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Ministerfor Women—

87 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—RESPITE CARE—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister forCommunity Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister forWomen—

88 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—LEVEL OF SERVICE—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister forCommunity Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister forWomen—

89 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY—ACCOMMODATION—Mr Rozzoli to ask the Minister forCommunity Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister forWomen—

90 CANCELLED HIP SURGERY—Mrs Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—

91 HELICOPTER MEDICAL RETRIEVAL TEAM—Mrs Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—

92 RADIOTHERAPY TREATMENT—Mrs Skinner to ask the Minister for Health—

*93 NORTHPOWER SERVICE ACCESS FEE—Mr J.H. Turner asked the Minister for InformationTechnology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—


203

How many accounts does the new NorthPower service access fee apply to?

Answer—

349,148 customers as at 31 May 1999.

3 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 9)

94 FREIGHTCORP IN GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport and Ministerfor Roads—

95 EASTERN DISTRIBUTOR—LOCAL AREA IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM—Ms Moore to askthe Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—

96 RTA PROJECT—CHERRYBROOK—Mr Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport andMinister for Roads—

97 POLICE COMMISSIONER’S REMUNERATION—Mr Tink to ask the Premier, Minister for theArts and Minister for Citizenship—

98 WIRE ROPE BARRIERS—MOTOR CYCLES—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Transportand Minister for Roads—

22 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 10)

99 HISTORIC HOUSE—FAULCONBRIDGE—Mr Collins to ask the Premier, Minister for the Artsand Minister for Citizenship—

100 NAREMBURN—TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT STUDY—Mr Collins to ask the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

101 FEDERAL FUNDING—SIGNIFICANT LEARNING DIFFICULTIES—Mr Hartcher to ask theMinister for Education and Training—

102 FESTIVAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for LocalGovernment, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing theTreasurer and Minister for State Development—

103 CENTRAL COAST ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister forLocal Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

104 DOUGLAS PARK BRIDGE—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister forRoads—

105 STORMWATER TRUST PROJECTS—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for the Environment,Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting thePremier on the Arts—


204

106 DOUGLAS PARK BRIDGE—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Local Government, Minister forRegional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister for MineralResources and Minister for Fisheries—

107 AIR-CONDITIONING—MUSWELLBROOK HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Souris to ask the Minister forEducation and Training—

108 BINNAWAY RAIL HERITAGE—Mr Souris to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister forRoads—

109 COW PASTURE ROAD UPGRADE—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Transport andMinister for Roads—

110 COMMUNITY VISITORS—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Community Services, Ministerfor Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—

23 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 11)

111 SPEED LIMIT—F3 FREEWAY—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister forRoads—

112 NRMA STUDY—CENTRAL COAST—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Transport and Ministerfor Roads—

113 CAR PARK—GOSFORD RAILWAY STATION—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Transportand Minister for Roads—

114 DRUG SUMMIT—YOUTH DELEGATES—Mr Humpherson to ask the Premier, Minister for theArts and Minister for Citizenship—

115 CHATSWOOD STATION—DISABLED ACCESS—Mr Humpherson to ask the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

116 CBD PARKING LEVY—Mr Humpherson to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister forRoads—

117 VISIT—WARKOOL SHIRE COUNCIL—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for Local Government,Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing the Minister forMineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

118 LETTER—AUDITOR-GENERAL’S REPORT—Mr Oakeshott to ask the Minister for LocalGovernment, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs representing theMinister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

119 POLICE INVESTIGATION—JUDGE BELL—Mr O’Farrell to ask the Minister for Police—

120 DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTION’S ADVICE—Mr O’Farrell to ask the Minister forPolice representing the Attorney General and Minister for Industrial Relations—


205

121 DISPOSAL—SYDNEY WASTE—Mr Piccoli to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for UrbanAffairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

122 NSW WATER REFORM—Mr Piccoli to ask the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land andWater Conservation—

123 SEASONAL WORKERS—REGIONAL INDUSTRIES—Mr Piccoli to ask the Minister for LocalGovernment, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

124 RE-LOCATION OF UNEMPLOYED—REGIONAL INDUSTRIES—Mr Piccoli to ask theMinister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

125 ASBESTOS—TALLAWARRA POWER STATION—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for theEnvironment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and MinisterAssisting the Premier on the Arts—

126 STUDENT NUMBERS—HIGH SCHOOLS—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Education andTraining—

127 ACCIDENT STATISTICS—ILLAWARRA HIGHWAY—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

128 AMBULANCE STATION—SOUTH WEST ROCKS—Mr Stoner to ask the Minister for Health—

24 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 12)

129 KINCUMBER POLICE STATION—OPERATION—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Police—

130 50 KPH SPEED LIMIT—GOSFORD—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Transport and Ministerfor Roads—

131 TRAFFIC ROUTE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME—Mr Hartcher to ask the Minister for Transportand Minister for Roads—

132 TEACHERS—40 TO 60-YEAR AGE GROUP—Dr Kernohan to ask the Minister for Education andTraining—

133 SECONDARY TEACHERS—APPROPRIATE EMPLOYMENT—Dr Kernohan to ask theMinister for Education and Training—

134 TEACHERS LIST—AWAITING EMPLOYMENT—Dr Kernohan to ask the Minister for Educationand Training—

135 STUDY—SYDNEY CATCHMENT AUTHORITY—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for theEnvironment, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services, and MinisterAssisting the Premier on the Arts—

136 ENVIRONMENTAL FLOWS—MACARTHUR TREATMENT PLANT—Ms Seaton to ask theMinister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry and Minister forWestern Sydney—


206

137 ACCIDENT STATISTICS—NEWELL HIGHWAY—Mr Slack-Smith to ask the Minister forTransport and Minister for Roads—

138 MANNING BASE HOSPITAL—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Health—

25 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 13)

139 WAGGA WAGGA BASE HOSPITAL—Mr Maguire to ask the Minister for Health—

140 PROPOSED SCHOOL—JERRABOMBERRA—Mr Webb to ask the Minister for Education andTraining—

141 APPOINTMENT OF SUICIDE COUNSELLOR—Ms Seaton to ask the Minister for Health—

29 JUNE 1999

(Paper No. 14)

142 EIS—BADGERYS CREEK—Ms Allan to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs andPlanning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

What is the response of the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning to the Final EnvironmentalImpact Statement for the proposed second Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek?

143 EIS—BADGERYS CREEK—Ms Allan to ask the Minister for Information Technology, Minister forEnergy, Minister for Forestry and Minister for Western Sydney—

What is the response of the Office of Western Sydney to the Final Environmental Impact Statementfor the proposed second Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek?

144 EIS—BADGERYS CREEK—Ms Allan to ask the Minister for the Environment, Minister forEmergency Services, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on theArts—

What is the response of the following agencies to the Final Environmental Impact Statement for theproposed second Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek:

(a) Environment Protection Authority (EPA)?(b) National Parks and Wildlife Service?(c) Sydney Catchment Authority?


207

145 PROPOSED LANDFILL—WINDELLAMA—Mr Brogden to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister forUrban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

(1) Is he aware of Sydney Water advice on 19 January that Sydney Water has significantreservations regarding the proposed landfill at Oallen Ford Road, Windellama, particularly the closeproximity of the subject site to a waterway, Nadgigomar Creek, within a drinking water catchment?(2) Is he aware that asbestos is among the materials allowed to be deposited at the site?(3) Will he guarantee that Sydney’s drinking water will not be adversely affected by thisdevelopment?

146 M5 EAST TUNNEL—Mr Brogden to ask the Minister for Transport and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is he aware of the Charles Report commissioned by Canterbury Council on the potential effectson human health of the location of the single M5 East exhaust stack and the recommendation that theproposal be abandoned?(2) What alternatives to the location or design of the stack were explored by the RTA?(3) Has the tunnel design been finalised and when will the tunnel design plans be made public?(4) Were tunnel designs including built-in pollutant scrubbers ever considered in the developmentof the tunnel proposal?

147 M5 EAST TUNNEL—Mr Brogden to ask the Minister for the Environment, Minister for EmergencyServices, Minister for Corrective Services and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Is he aware of the Charles Report commissioned by Canterbury Council on the potential effectson human health of the location of the single M5 East exhaust stack and the recommendation that theproposal be abandoned?(2) What alternatives to the location or design of the stack were explored by the EPA?(3) Will the EPA guarantee that there are no human health hazards associated with the new locationfor the stack on nearby residents?(4) Does the EPA consider the height of the escarpment to the west and the height of the stackpresent any adverse air quality conditions?(5) Has the EPA assessed the proposed tunnel design in view of recent motor tunnel fires inEurope?

148 RAIL TRAVEL—OLYMPIC GAMES—Ms Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport andMinister for Roads—

(1) Will he confirm that free CityRail travel to the Olympic Games has been extended from Lithgowto Bathurst?(2) (a) Will the Government now extend free travel to the Olympics to Countrylink train and bus

passengers?(b) If not, will the Government give at least a 75 per cent concession to Olympic ticket holders

travelling on Countrylink services?(3) What is the projected level of demand for Olympic travel from the non-electrified CityRailnetwork centres such as Goulburn?(4) Will extra services be provided on the non-electrified CityRail network to cater for demand onOlympic Games days?(5) From where will CityRail draw the extra rolling stock to meet this demand?(6) Will he confirm that CityRail has only 14 two-car Endeavour sets and 5 two-car “620”class setsin service to meet this demand?


208

149 STRATHFIELD MUNICIPAL COUNCIL EXTRAORDINARY MEETING—Mr Moss to ask theMinister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) On Tuesday 15 June, did councillor Andrew Ho debate and vote at an extraordinary meeting ofthe Strathfield Municipal Council on a Notice of Motion to prosecute him for breach of the LocalGovernment Act for use of Strathfield ratepayers’ funds to seek endorsement of a Liberal Partycandidate for the Burwood Council by-election in December 1996?(2) Does councillor Ho’s action at this extraordinary meeting constitute a breach of the LocalGovernment Act and its regulations?(3) Will he ensure that the Department of Local Government will fully and openly investigatecouncillor Andrew Ho’s alleged illegal use of council property and subsequent action in voting toensure that council not prosecute him?

150 ENVIRONMENTAL FLOW SNOWY RIVER—Mr D.L. Page to ask the Minister for Agricultureand Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Has the NSW Government reached a position in relation to environmental flows into the SnowyRiver following the Webster Water Inquiry?(2) If so, what is that position?(3) If not, when will the NSW Government adopt a position?(4) Is the NSW Government considering a further inquiry to review the potential water savings asoutlined in the Webster Inquiry?(5) Will this inquiry be a public one?(6) If not, why not?

151 WATER ACT REVIEW—Mr D.L. Page to ask the Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Landand Water Conservation—

(1) Is the NSW Government planning to review the Water Act?(2) When will this review begin?(3) Can he outline the processes involved in this review, particularly those involving publicconsultation?(4) What assurance can he give that the interests of all water users will be properly considered?

152 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE—DEPARTMENTAL CONSULTATIONS—Mr Slack-Smith to askthe Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Does the Department of Agriculture provide financial assistance to stakeholder groups to attendpolicy, management or education consultations, workshops and seminars around the State onagricultural issues?(2) If so, which groups have received financial assistance?(3) How much did they receive and what was the purpose of each assistance grant?(4) What is the application process for assistance?

153 ABORIGINAL HOUSING—Mr Stoner to ask the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs andPlanning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Housing—

Under the new arrangements for the administration of State Aboriginal housing—(1) Will he ensure the four vandalised NSW Land Council houses adjacent to River Street,Greenhills, West Kempsey, will be remediated?(2) If so, when will work on the houses commence?


209

154 KEMPSEY WOMEN’S HOUSING—Mr Stoner to ask the Minister for Community Services,Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services and Minister for Women—

In relation to the funding agreement between the Department of Community Services and KempseyWomen’s Housing—(1) Does it stipulate that the services provided are to be for Aboriginal women?(2) Does it stipulate that Aboriginal people are to comprise at least 50 per cent of the managementcommittee?(3) If the answers to (1) and (2) above are “yes”, why is the agreement not being complied with?

155 ACCESS FEES—MIDCOAST WATER—Mr J.H. Turner to ask the Minister for Agriculture andMinister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Will MidCoast Water start charging an access fee for water from 1 July 1999?(2) If so, why?(3) If so, what will be the amount of the access fee?(4) If so, what is the gross amount that will be collected by MidCoast Water under such an accessfee?(5) Is there a requirement that he concur with the access fee?(6) If so, why did he concur?(7) If not, what conditions enable MidCoast Water to raise the charge?(8) Was there an access fee payable on vacant unmetered lots prior to 1 July 1999?(9) If not, why has a charge been imposed since 1 July 1999?(10) Did he agree to the access fee being charged on vacant unmetered lots?(11) If so, why?(12) If not, under what conditions can MidCoast Water raise such charge?(13) Does he concur with a separate access charge being made by MidCoast Water to each strataunit even though those strata units only operate from one meter?(14) If so, why?(15) Has MidCoast Water imposed a usage fee for water to commence on 1 July 1999?(16) If so, what is that water usage fee?(17) If so, did he approve of such a charge being implemented?(18) If so, why?(19) If not, under what power can MidCoast Water impose such a charge?(20) What is the expected gross income of such usage fee?(21) Was there any usage fee charged by MidCoast Water for the period 1 July 1998 to30 June 1999?(22) If so, what was the usage fee payable and on what number of kilolitres was it charged?(23) If so, what was the gross income from such a charge?(24) If a water usage charge and access fee was not imposed for the period 1 July 1998 to30 June 1999, what was the gross income from water rates collected by MidCoast Water for thatperiod?

_________________________________________Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales

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